Takachiho-gawara & Mount Takachiho-no-mine
高千穂河原・高千穂峰
The highland where the original site of Kirishima-jingu lies and the starting point for climbing Mount Takachiho-no-mine (1,574 meters), the peak where the heavenly grandson descended. Amanosakahoko, a sacred spear, is planted at the summit.
Takachiho-gawara is the location of Kirishima-jingu's original shrine site, known as the 'Old Shrine Site,' featuring a torii gate and an altar. A visitor center here explains the Kirishima volcanoes. The round trip climb of Mount Takachiho-no-mine takes about 3 to 4 hours. The volcanic gravel sections are steep and slippery, and the route passes the rim of Ohachi Crater. At the summit, the legendary 'Amanosakahoko,' a spear said to have been left by the deities, is planted. On clear days, you can see the Shinmoedake crater and Sakurajima. Kirishima azaleas bloom in May and June, and the foliage turns red in November. Caution: Shinmoedake near here has erupted many times in recent years. When the volcanic alert level rises, access to the Takachiho-gawara area may be prohibited, so check announcements from the Japan Meteorological Agency and Kirishima City before you set out. Parking is charged and it is about 15 minutes by car from Kirishima-jingu Shrine.
Opening hours
Open all day (subject to volcano alert level)
Nearby sights
- Kirishima-jingu Shrine
- Takachiho Farm
- Kirishima Shinwa-no-Sato Park
- Lake Onami
- Mount Karakuni
- Kirishima Onsen Village & Maruo Falls
- Ebino Plateau
- Ikoma Plateau